Rajasthan, or the ‘Land of Kings’, is the largest state in India, covering over 10 percent of the country’s total geographical area. Lying to the northwestern side of India, the state juxtaposes the inhospitable vastness of the arid Thar Desert in the west with the verdant Keoladeo National Park of Bharatpur in the east teeming with birds and other wildlife.
The state is a veritable amalgamation of architectural grandeur, vibrant culture, diverse wildlife and warm hospitality. Replete with royal palaces, imposing forts, magnificent havelis, amazing heritage sites and so much more, the state needs to be explored rather than just traveled to.
Beyond the well trodden tourist paths of Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur, there are others such as Jaisalmer with its magnificent havelis, palaces and temples. The state which traces its history back to the Vedic and Indus Valley civilizations, is rightfully described as a living museum of history, throbbing with a modern heart.
Here are some of the touristic delights of the ‘Desert Capital of India’ that one needs to explore in detail to fully comprehend the depth of what emerges at first sight.
Jaipur: The capital of Rajasthan is where royalty gets painted with the shades of cultures, traditions, history, and elegance. Jaipur, also known as the ‘Pink City of India’, for its distinctive pink colored overlay, it is the largest city of Rajasthan. In the year 1876, the then ruler of Jaipur, Sawai Ram Singh, had the entire city painted in pink to welcome the Prince of Wales.
Jaipur was founded by the ruler of Mewar, Maharaja Jai Singh II in 1727. An epitome of royal grandeurs and charm, the entire city is jotted with historic marvels that still reverberates the charm of a bygone era. Besides serving as a gateway to most other tourist places in Rajasthan, Jaipur also holds a noteworthy place in the ‘Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit‘ of India.
The pride of the great Thar Desert, Jaipur is acclaimed as an epicentre of art and architecture; it is in fact, the first planned city in India. With the city layout planned by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya according to ‘Vastu Shastra’ and ‘Shilpa Shastra’, it was divided into nine blocks; individual blocks for official buildings and public access. Since its inception, the city has not lost its charm and appeal and still beckons travelers from all over the world.
Udaipur: A true treasure trove in the Rajasthan travel itinerary, the royal city of Udaipur is bestowed with the magical charm of numerous lakes. Known as the ‘City of Lakes’, the city’s bucolic charm, mesmerising appeal, and heart-warming ambience has also earned it the moniker of ‘Venice of the East’.
Adding more to the enchanting beauty and alluring charm of Udaipur, there are imposing imperial palaces, spectacular forts, and several other reminiscences of the past that makes Udaipur a dream. Explore this royal city to witness, discover, and enjoy the beauty, culture, and romantic allure of a bygone era.
Jodhpur: The second largest city in Rajasthan, Jodhpur is all about the grandeurs of an extravagant past and royal charms. Dotted with several stunning palaces and outstanding forts, this historic city, often referred to as ‘Sun City of India’, experiences a sunny and bright ambience throughout the year. Also, in contrast to Jaipur’s pink hue, Jodhpur is bedecked in a vibrant blue color that is used in almost all the establishments across the city, earning the city the additional title of ‘Blue City of India’.
Founded by Rao Jodha in around 1459, Jodhpur is located at the centre of India’s Desert Capital and it takes pride in its historical landmarks and vivid history. Named after its founder, Jodhpur is divided into two parts, Old City and New City. Though these two parts have a stark difference, they completely comply with the royal essence and aura of Rajasthan’s golden past.
Chittorgarh: A land of valour, sacrifice, glory, pride, and romance, Chittorgarh is a scenic city that boasts of its royal charm, heroic tales, passionate love stories, architectural brilliance, and picturesque beauty.
Guarded by towering cliffs from almost all the sides, Chittorgarh is a phoenix city that reverberates with numerous tales of a bygone era. A land of love and devotion where dignity is followed by death. Despite being attacked ferociously by several enemies over the years, the city never bowed down before them. Warriors of Chittorgarh rose every time, and fought back courageously to reconquer their land. On the other hand, it was in Chittorgarh, where passionate devotees like Meera Bai reached the pinnacle of her love towards Lord Krishna.
Bharatpur: The ‘Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan’ is a land of guts-and-glories. Home to some of the most historical sites, natural marvels, and valorous tales, it was once the most invincible region across the land and owing to its great line of defence, the city got the name ‘Lohagarh’.
Founded by MaharahaSuraj Mal in 1733, the city was formerly known as ‘Mewat’, and was later named as ‘Bharatpur’ after king ‘Bharat’, one of the brothers of Lord Rama. Being the most impregnable part of Rajasthan, Bharatpur has successfully endured its culture and heritage since time immemorial. The city has a history that takes the visitors back to 5th century BC and is known to be the origin of the ‘Matsay Kingdom’.
In addition to the rich and diverse history, Bharatpur also boasts an exotic range of flora and fauna, and is home to the much acclaimed Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bikaner: An oasis in the bosom of the great Thar Desert, Bikaner, the fourth largest city in Rajasthan is a melting point of history, culture and royalty. Founded by Rao Bika; the eldest son of Maharj Rao of Jodhpur, in 1486, this magnificent oasis has always played a significant role in Rajasthan’s history. While during the ancient times, the city served as an important trade route between Central Asia and Gujarat Coast, it now boasts of being one of the most sought after places to visit in Rajasthan.
Once the capital of the princely state of Bikaner, the city came under the suzerainty of Mughal empires during the reign of its sixth ruler Maharaja Rai Singhji. Historical landmarks like Chintamani Durg or the Junagarh Fort, Karan Mahal Palace, Zenana Quarter, and Chandra Mahal were built during this period.
Jaisalmer: And then, there is Jaisalmer; a city within a state that offers a microcosm of what the entire region parades. Perched atop a ridge of yellowish sandstone, the city acts as a sentinel to the vast Thar desert and to India’s western frontier with Pakistan. Owing to the alluring golden color of the sandstones used in most of the buildings of this region, the city also goes by the name of ‘Golden City’.of India’s Desert Capital.
The most prominent landmark in the city is the imposing Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Quila (Golden Fort). Unlike most other forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a tourist attraction, itt houses shops, hotels and ancient havelis (homes) where generations continue to live.
Jaisalmer traces its inception to the 12th century when history tells us of Rawal Jaisal, the eldest heir of the Rawal of Deoraj, who was passed over for the throne of Lodurva while a younger half-brother was crowned king. Rawal Jaisal went looking for a new location to set up his capital. In 1156 he constructed a mud fort atop a hill and named it Jaisalmer, or the Hill Fort of Jaisal, and declared it his capital.
It is in Jaisalmer that one is best able to appreciate the intricate mix of nature, architecture and culture of the state and its famed hospitality. Places to visit in and around the city include:
Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort rises from the desert itself and seems to blend with the surrounding sand to become one with the golden hues of the desert. The setting sun adds its own magic and shrouds the fort with an alluring mystique. Constructed in the classic style of the royals by local craftsmen, the fort is a world heritage site.
Jaisalmer Government Museum: Established by the Department of Archaeology and Museums, it is a prime attraction for tourists visiting Jaisalmer. The most striking display is the trophy of Rajasthan‘s state bird Godawan (the great Indian bustard). Traditional household items, rock-cut crockery, jewellery and statues from the 7th and 9th century AD displayed here are remnants of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli: Two architect brothers built Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli in the 19th century. They worked on the haveli from two sides and the outcome is a beautiful blend of the symmetrical construction. Miniature style paintings and mighty tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone are used for decoration.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli: This haveli was built in the first half of the 18th century and a part of it is still occupied by descendants of the original residents. The high arched roof is supported by carved brackets designed in the shape of peacocks. Legend has it that there were two additional wooden storeys that made it match the Maharaja’s palace in height, but he ordered for the upper level to be demolished.